Delaware 2024 election: Matt Meyer, Michael Ramone show up in gubernatorial race

Ramone has argued that Delawareans would be better served by restoring political balance in state government. Known for his willingness to work across party lines, he has won re-election several times in a district where Democrats far outnumber Republicans. His reputation for being bipartisan could help him appeal to moderate Democrats and unaffiliated voters, but he faces an uphill battle in solid-blue Delaware, where voter registration numbers favor Democrats.

Both Meyer and Ramone focused a lot on education during the gubernatorial campaign. Meyer, a former middle school math teacher, says his priorities include increased funding for public schools, particularly for low-income students, students with disabilities and English language learners. He has also called for universal kindergarten and higher salaries for primary school teachers.

Ramone supports performance-based incentives for Delaware teachers, expanded access to voucher programs and more money flowing to classrooms instead of school administration.

Elected to the state House in 2008, Ramone became the GOP gubernatorial nominee after winning 72% of the vote in a three-way GOP primary.

Meyer advanced to the race against Ramone after defeating Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long and former state Environment Secretary Collin O’Mara in a Democratic primary. Meyer, who received 47% of the vote, led all candidates in fundraising, but he was also helped by one scandal involving Hall-Long’s campaign finances and reports that her office staff is being used for non-government work.

Outgoing Democratic Governor John Carneywho is barred by law from seeking a third term, looked set to become mayor of Wilmington, Delaware’s largest city, after winning a Democratic primary in September.

Polling stations are open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday.